TONY MITCHELL is best known as being the singer songwriter & fronting the 90's Classic Rock band KISS OF THE GYPSY, signed to Atlantic Records USA & Warner Chappell. In 2023 Mitchell releases his fourth official solo album "Radio Heartbeat." "Turn up the dial, get a little high, gonna rock until the morning light. Forever in my heart & in my soul...get the top down, turn it up loud, let the good times roll, let it all hang out. Together on this boulevard of dreams (Radio Heartbeat)." The album has 12 songs.

"Blue Lightning" is the first. A big, punchy melody hits you out of the gates, and the vocals are tender and raspy, with plenty of backing harmonies. The song is full of hooks as well, and the lead breaks are great. "Keep the Love Alive" has some touches of gospel harmonies to go along with the fast-paced rocking structure. It also has a positive message for all: "shine your light, and keep your love alive." "Rocking in a Hard Place" is the big anthem on the album. A slow and heavy rocking pace drives the sound. It reminds me of the Joan Jett hit "I Hate Myself for Loving You."

"Top of the World" is a much more tender song, with pensive vocals and piano, that it until the thick and rich vocal harmonies come out in the chorus. "This Side of Midnight" has some nice and smooth keyboards to augment the riff driven sound. The vocal harmonies are rich once again and there is also some really nice lead guitar work. "Borderline" begins with a twin guitar assault. It reminds me of a good BON JOVI song, and you can hear the classic influences in this band for sure. "Find a Way" is another tender offering, beguiling the listener to push through their problems and just find a way to make it work. It's just a bit sappy but I am not complaining.

"Phoenix Rising" closes the album. I liken the song title to the resolve of Tony Mitchell to keep going and never resting. It has a heavy keyboard sound, almost like BOSTON in the opening. The sound in this song bites a little more. Overall, the best part of the album were the hooks and vocal harmonies. When you are playing Hard Rock/AOR, they are a necessary part of the genre in my opinion, and he has assembled a great backing cast for this.